How Do Regular Teeth Cleanings Benefit Your Overall Health?

As great as you are at brushing and flossing your teeth at home, you aren’t going to be able to leave your teeth completely spotless. The truth is that there are some areas of the mouth where even the most diligent brushers cannot reach with their toothbrush. This is why it is so important that you go in for regular dental cleanings twice a year. Continue reading to learn how a six-month cleaning can benefit both your oral and overall health.

Prevents Gum Disease

Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is a preventable condition that is very common. In fact, approximately half of all American adults who are over the age of 30 are suffering from it at one stage or another. This is usually caused by a buildup of plaque and tartar around the teeth. This causes swelling and bleeding when you brush and floss your teeth. When you go to the dentist regularly for cleanings, they will clear away this plaque in order to prevent this infection of the gum tissue.

Reduce Likelihood of Heart Disease

In addition to harming your smile, harmful bacteria from the mouth can find its way into the bloodstream. This can increase your risk of experiencing a stroke, heart attack, and other cardiovascular events. Regular cleanings help to reduce inflammation caused by bacteria and improve blood vessel function.

Prevents Diabetes

Diabetes and gum disease are both conditions that make each other worse. For instance, if you have periodontal disease or another infection in the body, it can be more difficult for you to regulate your blood sugar if you are diabetic. When you have diabetes, it is harder to keep infections under control throughout the body. Ultimately, seeing your dentist for regular visits can help to prevent the onset of an infection of the gum tissue, therefore reducing your risk for diabetes.

Prevents Premature Birth

Pregnant women who have gum disease are more likely to experience an early labor, and their child is at higher risk for having a lower birth weight. Because of fluctuating hormones, pregnant women are actually more likely to develop gingivitis. It is especially important for expectant mothers to take steps in order to keep their smile healthy throughout their pregnancy.

Decrease Rate of Dementia

People who are living with dementia tend to decline six times faster when they have gum disease as opposed to healthy gum tissue. This is because periodontal bacteria can increase inflammation throughout the body. Researchers believe that by maintaining excellent dental health, dementia will make a less significant impact.

You want to keep your teeth healthy and strong, not just for your appearance, but also for your overall health. By seeing your dentist for regular checkups, you could even prolong your life!

About the Author

Dr. John Kuan earned his dental doctorate from the University of the Pacific School of Dentistry in San Francisco and is committed to completing continuing education courses in order to keep his knowledge and skills sharp. To learn more about regular dental cleanings and checkups or to schedule an appointment at his office in Royse City, visit his website or call (469) 723-4000.